Mrs Hamblin, 59, who runs the Paddock bed and breakfast, said: “She has always been a very good all-rounder, so was very lucky to have the chance to do anything. She was very good at languages and numbers and that’s what she has chosen but she could have been anything she wanted.

“She was always very focused when she had work to do but that’s not to say she wasn’t a party girl as well. She enjoyed being with her friends and would never study more than she needed to.

“She is intense in her work and makes sure she gets it done — unlike me. When I was a student I always left it to the last minute.”

The couple have three other children, David, 34, and Tallie, 31, who both live in Sydney, and Christopher, 24, who lives in London.

Miss Hamblin graduated in 2008 with a first class degree in politics, philosophy and economics. She then joined the civil service’s fast-track graduate programme and studied part-time for her Chartered Institute of Management Accountants qualification.

Trainees are required to pass 10 professional qualification exams in four years and complete three years’ professional experience.

Miss Hamblin said: “I am delighted to have done so well. It was hard work but I was lucky as my employers gave me some time off to attend college.

“I’m not sure yet what I’d like to do next but I’d love to start my own business one day.”